Pakistan Names U18 Squad for Asia Cup in China

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has officially announced the national squad that will represent the country at the Men’s U18 Asia Cup, to be played in Dazhou, China, from July 3 to 13.

The 18-player squad features a mix of promising young talents from across Pakistan, many of whom have been training intensively for this important event. This tournament will not only showcase emerging players on a big stage but is also critical for Pakistan’s ambitions to rebuild its hockey strength from the grassroots level, especially after the positive signs shown by the senior team.

The U18 Asia Cup will bring together teams from 10 other nations alongside Pakistan, including hosts China, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong China, Malaysia, Japan, Chinese Taipei, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, and Kazakhstan.

Pakistan has been drawn in Pool A, where it will face tough matches against China, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Hong Kong China. Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Chinese Taipei make up Pool B.

Pakistan U18’s Asia Cup Schedule:

Depending on results, Pakistan could qualify for the semi-finals scheduled for July 11 or the classification matches in the days that follow.

Pakistan Squad for Asia Cup:

Below is the full list of players who have been selected to wear the green shirt in China:

Pakistan’s junior hockey has faced many challenges in recent years, but the PHF hopes this tournament can be a turning point. The U18 Asia Cup gives these players a chance to measure themselves against Asia’s best and prepare for bigger opportunities ahead.

If Pakistan performs strongly in the group, they will be well-positioned to return with a podium finish, something that would give a big lift to the sport’s revival.